In a recent segment, Former Homeland Security Advisor and CEO of Sentinel Securities Solutions, Charles Marino, shared his thoughts on the ongoing immigration situation at the US-Mexico border. Marino discussed the notion put forth by Congressman Henry Cuellar that a significant majority of individuals entering the country illegally are not seeking asylum. Marino pointed out that the current administration has expanded the legal pathways into the US and included fleeing from poverty as a valid reason for seeking asylum, despite poverty not meeting the criteria for such protection.
Marino highlighted the concerning statistics surrounding deportations, stating that only 5% of encounters at the Southwest border are resulting in deportations or turnarounds. He argued that these low numbers, coupled with the increasing entitlements provided by sanctuary cities and initiatives like free healthcare, serve as significant pull factors for migrants seeking entry into the country. Marino expressed concern that the lack of deterrence and the policies implemented by the administration would inevitably lead to a continued influx of migrants and an increased risk to national security.
The unpopularity of the current border policies was also highlighted, with a recent poll showing that only 33% of respondents approved of President Biden's border policy, while 63% disapproved. Despite this, Marino criticized the administration's insistence that the policy is working effectively. He argued that such claims were disrespectful to the American people, who are experiencing the direct impacts of heightened migration, including strain on local infrastructure and increases in crime.
Marino offered an explanation for the administration's reluctance to change course, speculating that they may not believe the American people would hold them accountable in the 2024 elections. However, he cautioned against such a gamble, stating that another four years of the current policies would make it exceedingly challenging to restore the country's safety and security.
Addressing a recent meeting between US and Mexican officials, Marino expressed skepticism regarding any meaningful outcomes. He believed the meeting was primarily aimed at managing the optics and preserving trade relationships, with the goal of avoiding interruptions at the ports of entry. Marino emphasized that the reintroduction of policies like Remain in Mexico and the enforcement of existing laws would require the administration to acknowledge their initial missteps, which they might be hesitant to do in an election year.
As the immigration crisis continues, concerns are mounting over the Biden administration's handling of the situation. With illegal migrants being assigned court dates years down the line, the viability of managing the backlog remains uncertain. The public sentiment regarding the border policies remains a significant issue, as it consistently ranks among Americans' top concerns in various polls. Whether the administration intends to make any significant changes before the 2024 elections or persist with its current approach remains to be seen.
